Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable destination in Turkey? Do you want to explore the ancient ruins of a pirate city, relax on a pristine beach, hike to a mystical fire, and stay in a cozy tree house? If yes, then Olympos is the place for you!
Olympos is a small town and an archaeological site in Antalya, Turkey. It is one of the most beautiful and charming places in the country, with a rich history, stunning nature, and a bohemian vibe. In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Olympos, from its history and culture to its nature and adventure. We will also give you some tips and FAQs for visiting Olympos, and some testimonials from previous visitors. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Olympos has something for everyone!

History and Culture of Olympos
Olympos was founded in the 4th century BC by the Lycians, a mysterious and powerful civilization that ruled the southwestern coast of Anatolia. The name Olympos means "the city of the gods", and it was one of the six major cities of the Lycian League, a confederation of independent city-states that resisted the Persian and Roman invasions.
Olympos reached its peak of prosperity and fame in the 2nd century BC, when it became a haven for pirates, led by the notorious Zenicetes. The pirates used Olympos as their base to raid the Mediterranean ships and towns, and they even minted their own coins with the image of Zenicetes. The pirate era ended in 78 BC, when the Roman general Servilius Isauricus captured and executed Zenicetes, and annexed Olympos to the Roman Empire.
Olympos continued to flourish under the Roman rule, and it became a center of the Mitras Cult, a mysterious religion that worshipped the sun god Mitras. The cult had a secret temple in Olympos, where they performed rituals and ceremonies. One of the most famous visitors of Olympos was the Roman emperor Hadrian, who came to the city in 131 AD, and left behind a monumental gate that still stands today.
Olympos declined in the 3rd century AD, due to the raids of the Arab and the Byzantine armies, and the spread of malaria. The city was abandoned in the 15th century AD, and it was rediscovered by the archaeologists in the 19th century. Today, Olympos is a protected archaeological site, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year, who come to admire its ancient ruins and its natural beauty.
Some of the main monuments and structures that you can see in Olympos are:
- The Temple Gate: This is the most iconic and impressive landmark of Olympos. It is a huge archway that was built in the 2nd century AD, and it was dedicated to the emperor Hadrian. The gate has three openings, and it is decorated with reliefs and inscriptions. It is located at the entrance of the ancient city, and it welcomes you to the world of Olympos.
- The Theater: This is a typical Roman theater that was built in the 2nd century AD, and it had a capacity of 3,000 spectators. The theater is partially preserved, and it has a semicircular seating area, a stage, and a backstage. The theater was used for performances, festivals, and ceremonies, and it offers a panoramic view of the valley and the sea.
- The Necropolis Church: This is a Byzantine church that was built in the 5th century AD, and it is located in the necropolis, or the cemetery, of Olympos. The church is dedicated to Saint Methodius, who was the bishop of Olympos and a martyr of the Christian faith. The church has a basilica plan, and it is decorated with frescoes and mosaics. The church is also the burial place of Methodius, whose sarcophagus is still visible inside.
- The Acropolis Hill: This is the highest point of Olympos, and it was the location of the citadel, or the fortress, of the city. The acropolis hill is accessible by a steep and narrow path, and it offers a breathtaking view of the ancient city and the surrounding landscape. The acropolis hill is also the site of some of the oldest and most mysterious structures of Olympos, such as the rock-cut tombs, the cisterns, and the walls.
- The Captain Eudomus Sarcophagus: This is a remarkable sarcophagus that was found in Olympos, and it belongs to a Roman captain named Eudomus. The sarcophagus is made of marble, and it is carved with scenes of naval battles and sea creatures. The sarcophagus is dated to the 2nd century AD, and it is one of the finest examples of Roman art and craftsmanship in Olympos.
Olympos is also a place of myths and legends, and some of them are:
- The Mitras Cult: This was a secretive and mysterious religion that worshipped the sun god Mitras, who was born from a rock and killed a bull. The cult had a hidden temple in Olympos, where they performed their rituals and ceremonies. The temple was discovered by the archaeologists in the 20th century, and it is located near the river. The temple has a rectangular plan, and it is decorated with symbols and images of Mitras and his deeds.
- The Hadrian's Visit: This was a historical event that took place in 131 AD, when the Roman emperor Hadrian visited Olympos and left behind a monumental gate. The gate was a gift from the city to the emperor, and it was a sign of gratitude and loyalty. The gate was also a symbol of the prosperity and the glory of Olympos under the Roman rule.
- The Methodius' Martyrdom: This was a tragic event that took place in the 4th century AD, when the bishop of Olympos, Methodius, was tortured and killed by the Roman authorities for his Christian faith. Methodius was a saint and a scholar, and he wrote several books and letters on theology and philosophy. He was also a defender of the orthodox doctrine, and he opposed the heretical teachings of the Arians. Methodius was arrested and brought to Olympos, where he was beheaded and buried in the necropolis church.

Nature and Adventure of Olympos
Olympos is not only a historical and cultural treasure, but also a natural and adventurous paradise. It is located in a lush and green valley, surrounded by the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. It has a mild and pleasant climate, and it is home to a rich and diverse flora and fauna. Olympos is also a popular destination for backpackers and travelers, who come to enjoy its bohemian and relaxed atmosphere, and its variety of attractions and activities.
Some of the main attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Olympos are:
- The Tree Houses: These are the most characteristic and charming accommodation options in Olympos. They are wooden cabins that are built on the trees, and they offer a cozy and rustic experience. They are equipped with basic amenities, such as beds, bathrooms, electricity, and wifi, and they have a communal area, where you can socialize with other guests, play games, or watch movies. The tree houses are also affordable and eco-friendly, and they are located near the beach and the ancient city.
- The Beach: This is the main attraction of Olympos, and it is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Turkey. It is a long and sandy beach, with crystal clear and turquoise water, and it is bordered by pine trees and rocks. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, and it is also a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead turtles, who come to lay their eggs every year. The beach is also the entrance to the ancient city of Olympos, and you can walk along the river to reach the temple gate.
- The Chimera: This is a mystical and magical attraction of Olympos, and it is also known as the Yanartaş, or the burning stone. It is a natural phenomenon that consists of flames that come out of the ground, and they are caused by the emission of methane gas from the rocks. The flames are visible at night, and they create a spectacular and surreal sight. The Chimera is also a mythical creature, a fire-breathing monster that was killed by the hero Bellerophon and his winged horse Pegasus. The Chimera is located on a hill, and it is accessible by a hiking trail that takes about an hour to complete.
- The Rock Climbing: This is an adventurous and exciting activity that you can do in Olympos, and it is suitable for all levels of experience and skill. Olympos has several rock climbing routes, that range from easy to difficult, and they offer a thrilling and challenging experience. The rock climbing routes are located on the cliffs and the mountains, and they offer a stunning view of the valley and the sea. You can rent the equipment and hire a guide from the local agencies, or you can join a group of other climbers.
- The Diving: This is another adventurous and exciting activity that you can do in Olympos, and it is a great way to explore the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea. Olympos has several diving sites, that offer a variety of marine life, such as fish, turtles, octopus, coral, and sponge. You can also see some wrecks, caves, and walls, that add to the thrill and the mystery of the diving experience. You can rent the equipment and hire a guide from the local agencies, or you can join a group of other divers.
- The Quad Safari: This is a fun and exhilarating activity that you can do in Olympos, and it is a great way to discover the countryside and the nature of the region. Olympos has several quad safari routes, that take you through the forest, the river, the fields, and the villages. You can enjoy the scenery, the wildlife, and the culture of Olympos, while riding a four-wheeled vehicle that can handle any terrain. You can rent the quad and hire a guide from the local agencies, or you can join a group of other riders.

Some of the nearby places that you can see and visit from Olympos are:
- The Olympos Cable Car: This is a spectacular and scenic attraction that takes you to the summit of the Tahtalı Mountain, which is the highest peak of the Taurus Mountains. The cable car is the longest and the highest cable car in Europe, and it offers a panoramic view of the Olympos valley, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The cable car is located about 15 km from Olympos, and it operates daily from 9 am to 6 pm. The cable car ticket costs 25 euros for adults and 12 euros for children.
- The Phaselis: This is another ancient city that was founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC, and it was also a member of the Lycian League. Phaselis was famous for its perfume production and its trade, and it had three harbors that connected it to the Mediterranean world. Phaselis was also visited by the famous figures, such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Hadrian. Today, Phaselis is a protected archaeological site, and it has some of the best-preserved ruins in the region, such as the theater, the aqueduct, the baths, and the agora. Phaselis is also a popular beach destination, and it has a clear and calm water, and a sandy and pebbly shore. Phaselis is located about 25 km from Olympos, and it is accessible by car, bus, or boat.
- The Ulupınar: This is a charming and peaceful village that is famous for its natural springs and its trout restaurants. Ulupınar is located in a green and fertile valley, and it has a cool and refreshing climate. Ulupınar is a great place to enjoy a delicious and fresh meal, while listening to the sound of the water and the birds. You can choose from a variety of trout dishes, such as grilled, fried, or baked, and you can also try some of the local specialties, such as gözleme, börek, or ayran. Ulupınar is located about 30 km from Olympos, and it is accessible by car or bus.
-The Kekova: This is a stunning and magical island that is famous for its sunken city and its blue cave. Kekova was once a thriving Lycian city, but it was submerged by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. Today, you can see the remains of the houses, the streets, the stairs, and the tombs of the sunken city, through the clear and turquoise water. You can also visit the blue cave, which is a natural wonder that has a blue and glowing water, and a rich and diverse marine life. Kekova is located about 80 km from Olympos, and it is accessible by boat from the nearby towns of Kaş or Demre.
- The Suluada: This is a hidden and exotic island that is famous for its white sand and its fresh water. Suluada is a small and uninhabited island, and it has a unique feature: a spring that flows from the middle of the island to the sea. The spring creates a contrast between the salt water and the fresh water, and it also creates a white sand beach that resembles a tropical paradise. Suluada is a great place to swim, snorkel, and relax, and it is also a nesting site for the rare Mediterranean monk seals. Suluada is located about 90 km from Olympos, and it is accessible by boat from the nearby towns of Kaş or Demre.
Tips and FAQs for Visiting Olympos
If you are planning to visit or stay in Olympos, here are some practical and helpful information that you should know:
- How to get to Olympos: Olympos is located about 80 km from Antalya, and it is accessible by car, bus, or plane. If you are driving, you can take the D400 highway from Antalya to Kumluca, and then follow the signs to Olympos. If you are taking the bus, you can take the Antalya-Kumluca bus from the Antalya bus station, and then take a minibus or a taxi to Olympos. If you are flying, you can take a flight to the Antalya airport, and then take a bus, a taxi, or a shuttle to Olympos.
- When to go to Olympos: Olympos has a Mediterranean climate, and it has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The best time to go to Olympos is from April to October, when the weather is warm, sunny, and dry, and the temperature ranges from 20°C to 35°C. The peak season is from June to August, when Olympos is crowded, lively, and festive, and the temperature can reach 40°C. The low season is from November to March, when Olympos is quiet, calm, and peaceful, and the temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C.
- What to pack for Olympos: Olympos is a casual and laid-back place, and you don't need to pack a lot of things for your visit or stay. The essential items that you should pack are: a passport, a visa, a credit card, a phone, a charger, a camera, a sunscreen, a hat, a sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, a flip-flops, a backpack, a flashlight, a mosquito repellent, a water bottle, a snack, and a book. You should also pack some clothes that are suitable for the season and the activities that you plan to do, such as a t-shirt, a shorts, a jeans, a jacket, a sweater, a raincoat, a hiking shoes, etc.
- Where to stay in Olympos: Olympos has a variety of accommodation options, but the most popular and characteristic ones are the tree houses. The tree houses are wooden cabins that are built on the trees, and they offer a cozy and rustic experience. They are equipped with basic amenities, such as beds, bathrooms, electricity, and wifi, and they have a communal area, where you can socialize with other guests, play games, or watch movies. The tree houses are also affordable and eco-friendly, and they are located near the beach and the ancient city. Some of the best tree houses in Olympos are: Kadir's Tree Houses, Bayram's Tree Houses, Turkmen Tree Houses, and Olympos Orange Bungalows.
- Where to eat in Olympos: Olympos has a variety of dining options, but the most common and convenient ones are the buffet restaurants. The buffet restaurants are located in the tree houses, and they offer a delicious and fresh meal, that includes a soup, a salad, a main course, a dessert, and a drink. The buffet restaurants serve both Turkish and international cuisine, and they cater to different dietary preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. The buffet restaurants are also cheap and all-inclusive, and they cost about 10 euros per person. Some of the best buffet restaurants in Olympos are: Kadir's Restaurant, Bayram's Restaurant, Turkmen Restaurant, and Olympos Orange Restaurant.
- How to get around Olympos: Olympos is a small and compact place, and you can easily get around by walking, biking, or hitchhiking. Walking is the best way to explore the ancient city and the beach, and it takes about 15 minutes to walk from one end to the other. Biking is the best way to explore the countryside and the nature, and you can rent a bike from the local agencies or the tree houses for about 5 euros per day. Hitchhiking is the best way to explore the nearby places, such as the Chimera, the cable car, the Phaselis, etc., and you can catch a ride from the friendly and helpful locals or the travelers.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Olympos, and their answers:
- What is the entrance fee to Olympos?: The entrance fee to Olympos is 10 Turkish liras (about 1 euro) per person, and it is valid for one day. You can pay the fee at the ticket booth near the beach, and you will receive a wristband that allows you to enter and exit the ancient city as many times as you want. The entrance fee is used for the maintenance and the protection of the archaeological site.
- What are the opening hours of Olympos?: Olympos is open every day, from sunrise to sunset. You can visit the ancient city and the beach at any time during the day, but you are not allowed to stay there after dark. The only exception is the Chimera, which is open at night, and you can see the flames from a distance or up close. The Chimera is located about 7 km from Olympos, and you can reach it by car, bus, or taxi.
- How to contact Olympos?: Olympos is managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey, and it has an official website, where you can find more information and updates about the site. The website is [www.olympos.gov.tr](www.olympos.gov.tr), and it is available in Turkish and English. You can also contact Olympos by phone, email, or mail, using the following details:
Phone: +90 242 892 12 50
Email: olympos@kultur.gov.tr
Mail: Olympos Archaeological Site, Kumluca, Antalya, Turkey
Conclusion
Olympos is a hidden gem of history, nature, and adventure in Turkey, and it is a must-see destination for anyone who loves to travel. Olympos offers a unique and unforgettable experience, that combines the ancient ruins of a pirate city, the pristine beach of a Mediterranean island, the mystical fire of a mythical creature, and the cozy tree houses of a bohemian town. Olympos is a place where you can learn, explore, relax, and have fun, and it is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.